Plans have been unveiled to expand the biggest boat Show in the UK.
The area used for Southampton International Boat Show could be expanded to include Western Esplanade and the sites outside West Quay and Leonardo Royal Hotel.
The additional space would feature food and exhibitors stands as well as benches and deckchairs.
“A boost the local economy”
It comes as organisers are seeking permission to expand the area used for the Show in a move that is expected to boost the local economy.
The proposals will be discussed by licensing bosses in Southampton on Wednesday, 23rd June.
How the Show will be expanded
British Marine, organiser of the event, said,
“Southampton International Boat Show has sought to extend the existing license and its terms to connect the Show with the historic city walls and the heart of the City of Southampton. The additional space at the Show will feature a new ‘Zone’ experience created to help promote a wider range of watersports including entry level equipment, dinghies and classic and day boats.
“These new zones will enable us to further demonstrate how accessible getting afloat is for everyone. In addition, the space will also feature catering units, a covered area with seating and a small undercover stage where entertainment will be played, as we do in other areas of the Show.”
The Show’s first ever community day
This year’s event is expected to be held between 10th and 19th September. It comes as last year’s Show was cancelled the night before its start due to a rise in Coronavirus cases. Organisers said the 2019 Show resulted in a £31m boost to the local economy.
They said to be working with Southampton City Council to also develop plans for what would be the Show’s first ever community day aimed at connecting Southampton residents with the marine community.
British Marine said,
“The end goal for a larger Show is to build on this national celebration of boating and watersports, offering a great day out for the family in one location and a way of enthusing next generations.”
According to organisers, the opening hours of this year’s Show would be as follow:
- Mayflower Park and Holiday Inn – 10:00-18:30;
- Westquay Shopping Centre, Western Esplanade and Leonardo Royal Hotel – 09:30-18:30;
- The Festival Green – 09:30-21:30.
Bogle: Blocking up of Western Esplanade will affect residents
Bargate councillor Sarah Bogle said local councillors have recently met with organisers of the Show.
She added,
“The Boat Show ‘footprint’ will alter significantly, bringing it more into the city centre.
“The blocking up of Western Esplanade will affect residents of the Old Town (a road closure order will be sent out for consultation). We want to ensure residents concerns and questions are heard.”
Smith: An expanded Show would help them recover
Southampton Itchen MP Royston Smith said,
“The Southampton Boat Show has faced significant challenges particularly having last year’s Show cancelled at the eleventh hour.
“An expanded Show would help them as they recover and give visitors an even better experience than in previous years. I hope their application is approved by the City Council.”
The plans will be discussed by the Licensing Sub-Committee at Southampton City Council on 23rd June at 4pm.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is part of. Read here to find about more about how that scheme works on the Island. Some alterations and additions may have been made by News OnTheWight. Ed
Image: © Southampton International Boat Show
